Challenges in the Life of Eric Swalwell in a Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Eric Swalwell's life and career.

Eric Swalwell is an American lawyer and politician currently serving as the U.S. representative for California's 14th congressional district since 2023, after representing the 15th district from 2013 to 2023. A member of the Democratic Party, his district encompasses eastern Alameda County and part of central Contra Costa County. He is known for his work in Congress.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2001: Ended soccer scholarship

In 2001, Eric Swalwell broke both his thumbs, ending his soccer scholarship.

2012: Campaign for Congress

During the 2012 election cycle, the Stark campaign accused Swalwell of being a Tea Party candidate and Stark refused to debate with Swalwell during the campaign.

December 2016: Introduced Protecting Our Democracy Act

In December 2016, Eric Swalwell and Representative Elijah Cummings introduced the Protecting Our Democracy Act.

January 2017: Reintroduced Protecting Our Democracy Act

In January 2017, Eric Swalwell and Representative Elijah Cummings reintroduced the Protecting Our Democracy Act for the 115th Congress.

2018: Personal data seized by U.S. Department of Justice

In 2018, under the Trump administration, the U.S. Department of Justice seized Eric Swalwell's personal data.

July 8, 2019: Swalwell withdraws from presidential race

On July 8, 2019, Eric Swalwell withdrew from the presidential race, facing the risk of not qualifying for the second set of debates and with polling averages never rising above 1%.

December 2020: Allegations of national security threat

In December 2020, following an Axios story, Eric Swalwell faced allegations of being a national security threat due to his association with Christine Fang, though the story mentioned she had sexual relations with two unidentified Midwestern mayors, but not with Swalwell. He received death and rape threats.

March 5, 2021: Filed civil lawsuit

On March 5, 2021, Eric Swalwell filed a civil lawsuit against Donald Trump, Donald Trump Jr., Representative Mo Brooks, and Rudy Giuliani.

March 2021: Motion to remove Swalwell from House Intelligence Committee

In March 2021, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy moved to remove Eric Swalwell from his seat on the House Intelligence Committee, but the motion was tabled.

April 2021: House Ethics Committee opens investigation into Swalwell

In April 2021, the House Ethics Committee initiated an investigation into Eric Swalwell.

January 2023: Expelled from House Intelligence Committee

In January 2023, Speaker Kevin McCarthy expelled Eric Swalwell and Adam Schiff from the House Intelligence Committee.

January 2023: McCarthy removes Swalwell from the Intelligence committee

In January 2023, after becoming Speaker, Kevin McCarthy removed Eric Swalwell from the Intelligence committee, stating concerns based on an FBI briefing. Swalwell's membership had expired due to term limits.